Should You Use Turn Signals on Curves Without Intersections? Court Ruling Provides the Answer! 'Violation Results in Immediate 3,000 NTD Fine' – Many Got It Wrong

Many drivers worry about accidentally crossing traffic violation lines during daily commutes. A netizen recently asked on a social media platform: 'When simply following a curved road without changing lanes, is it necessary to use turn signals?' This sparked heated debate between two opposing camps. In fact, similar cases have repeatedly made headlines, with some drivers even fined 1,200 NTD. Police and court standards have previously diverged, with one judge famously questioning, 'Should drivers signal continuously while driving on the winding Yilan Highway?' So, when can you skip the turn signal? And what should you do if you receive a disputed ticket?

Should You Signal on Curves Without Intersections? Online Opinions Are Divided

Regarding the controversy over whether turn signals are required when following the natural curve of the road, online opinions are sharply divided. One camp argues, 'Better safe than sorry—driving schools teach this,' and 'If there's a turning arrow on the ground, you must signal, or risk being targeted by aggressive ticket reporters.' The other side insists, 'It's unnecessary since it's obvious you're not leaving the main road. If reported, you can appeal or seek legal aid. In fact, using turn signals on a natural curve might mislead following drivers into thinking you're turning, prompting them to overtake and creating danger.'

Fined 1,200 NTD for Riding a Right-Turn Lane! Judge Cites 'Yilan Highway' Analogy to Overturn Penalty

In a past case, a man surnamed Li from Taoyuan was riding his motorcycle through a right-turn lane in Sanchong District, New Taipei City, when he was reported via video by a following vehicle for not using a turn signal. He was subsequently fined 1,200 NTD by the traffic adjudication office. Mr. Li contested the penalty in administrative court, arguing that he was merely 'following the road' and not turning onto another route.

The court overturned the fine, citing two key reasons in its ruling:

· Natural 'Curved Travel': Mr. Li remained entirely within the same right-turn lane, following the road's natural curvature without deviating from the original path—thus not constituting a 'turning maneuver' under traffic regulations.

· Logical Contradiction: The judge humorously pointed out that if the adjudication office's logic—that drivers must signal whenever following a curve—were applied, then drivers on the winding Yilan Highway would have to signal continuously throughout the entire route, which is impractical.

When Should You Use Turn Signals? A Complete Guide to the 5 Mandatory Situations and Penalty Standards

While fines for not signaling on naturally curved roads may be appealable, turn signals remain an essential part of defensive driving in most everyday scenarios.

1. Penalty Standards

· General Roads: Fines range from 1,200 to 3,600 NTD.

· Highways and Expressways: Heavier fines of 3,000 to 6,000 NTD.

· Violation Points: One point is recorded in all cases.

2. The 5 Mandatory Times to Use Turn Signals

Drivers must always use turn signals in the following five situations:

· Turning

· Making a U-turn

· Changing lanes

· Starting to move

· Pulling over to park

3. Correct Turn Signal Usage

· Early Warning: Both motor vehicles and motorcycles must activate turn signals at least 30 meters before turning or changing lanes.

· Continuous Signaling: The turn signal must remain on until the maneuver is fully completed. Even when stopped at a red light preparing to turn, the signal must not be turned off mid-process.

What to Do If You Receive a Disputed 'No Turn Signal' Ticket? 2-Step Appeal Process

If you encounter a disputed ticket for 'not signaling while following a natural curve,' follow these steps to file an appeal:

Step 1: Check Violation Evidence Online

After receiving a ticket or notice, visit the 'Motor Vehicle Supervisory Service Website' to review photographic evidence. If reported, request to view the continuous video footage from the relevant authority to confirm whether your vehicle actually crossed lanes or showed intent to turn.

Step 2: Prepare Evidence and Submit an Administrative Statement

If you meet any of the following conditions, you can submit an appeal with dashcam footage or on-site photos (first-time statements are free):

· Natural Road Curvature: The vehicle was simply following the road's natural curve without lane changes or merging.

· Emergency Evasion: To avoid sudden road hazards (in accordance with the Administrative Penalty Act).

· Evidence Flaws: Photos or videos are blurry and cannot clearly identify the license plate.

Legal appeals must be based on objective facts and road design. Subjective excuses such as 'I forgot' or 'I thought there were no other cars' will not succeed in practice.